Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta (Air Fryer Version)

Why You’ll Love This

This recipe combines juicy air-fried chicken with creamy garlic cheese sauce and tender pasta—all in one satisfying bite. Using the air fryer makes it quicker and easier, with less mess and a deliciously baked finish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Serving Size: 3–4 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size cubes)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp garlic powder

½ tsp paprika

½ tsp dried Italian herbs

Salt & pepper to taste

For the Sauce & Pasta:

2 cups cooked penne or rotini pasta

1 tbsp butter

4 garlic cloves (minced)

1½ cups heavy cream (or use milk + 1 tsp flour for lighter version)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt & pepper to taste

Optional: ¼ tsp red chili flakes

Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions 

Pre-Cook Pasta

Boil pasta according to package directions (al dente), drain, and set aside.

Marinate & Cook Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.

Add chicken to the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Air fry for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Make Cheesy Garlic Sauce

While the chicken is cooking:

In a skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.

Add heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer.

Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan. Let it melt and thicken.

Add chili flakes (optional), salt, and pepper to taste.

Toss in cooked pasta and stir to coat.

Combine & Air Fry Final Dish

In an air fryer-safe baking dish (ceramic or metal), combine the cheesy pasta and cooked chicken.

Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top for cheesy crust.

Final Bake in Air Fryer

Place the dish in the air fryer.

Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling.

Tips & Tricks

Pasta Tip: Undercook pasta by 1 minute so it doesn’t overcook in the final bake.

No heavy cream? Use full-fat milk + 1 tsp flour or cream cheese for thickening.

Extra kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper.

More veggies? Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Great with garlic bread or a fresh green salad on the side.

Nutrition (Per Serving, approx.)

Calories: 510

Protein: 35g

Carbs: 35g

Fat: 28g

Fiber: 2g